Nico Iamaleava wins MVP honors in 2023 Polynesian Bowl

Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava wins MVP honors in the 2023 Polynesian Bowl.

The Polynesian Bowl took place Friday at Kūnuiākea Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Tennessee freshman early enrollee quarterback Nico Iamaleava Jr. earned offensive most valuable player of the game honors.

Iamaleava Jr. and Team Mauka defeated Team Makai, 22-17.

He completed 13-of-20 passing attempts for 186 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while recording 63 rushing yards on five attempts.

Iamaleava Jr. announced his commitment to Tennessee on March 21, 2022.

The 6-foot-5, 195-pound quarterback played at Warren High School in Downey, California. in 2021. He transferred to Long Beach Polytechnic High School in Long Beach, California, in 2022.

Iamaleava Jr. enrolled early at Tennessee and took part in the Vols’ Orange Bowl practices. 

PHOTOS: Nico Iamaleava Jr. playing 7 on 7 at Farragut High School

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